The National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced that the online application process for JEE Main 2026 will commence in October 2025. The examination will be conducted in two sessions: January 2026 and April 2026. Candidates aspiring to appear for the examination are advised to regularly check the official websites: nta.ac.in and jeemain.nta.nic.in for updates, detailed instructions, and notices regarding the application process.
Important Document Updates Before Registration
In a notification released on 29th September 2025, the NTA emphasized the importance of ensuring that the following documents are updated and valid before filling out the JEE Main 2026 application form:
- Aadhaar Card: Ensure that the Aadhaar card contains accurate details, including the candidate’s name, date of birth (as per Class 10 certificate), photograph, address, and father’s name.
- UDID Card (for persons with disabilities): Candidates with disabilities must ensure their UDID card is valid, updated, and renewed as required.
- Category Certificates: Candidates belonging to reserved categories (EWS/ SC/ ST/ OBC-NCL) should ensure that their category certificates are current and compliant with the requirements.
Updating these documents beforehand will help avoid discrepancies or rejection at later stages of the admission process.
Application Process Overview
Once the registration window opens, candidates can follow these general steps to apply:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to jeemain.nta.nic.in.
- Register: Click on the registration link and provide necessary details to create an account.
- Fill Application Form: Complete the application form with accurate personal, academic, and contact information.
- Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of the required documents, including photographs and signatures.
- Pay Application Fee: Pay the application fee online through the available payment methods.
- Submit Application: Review all details and submit the application form.
- Download Confirmation: After submission, download and print the confirmation page for future reference.
Exam Sessions and Important Dates
- Session 1 (January 2026): The examination is expected to be held in January 2026.
- Session 2 (April 2026): The examination is expected to be held in April 2026.
Specific dates will be announced by the NTA on the official websites.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Age Limit: Candidates must have been born on or after 1st October 2001. For candidates belonging to SC, ST, or PwD categories, the age limit is relaxed by 5 years.
- Qualifying Examination: Candidates must have passed the Class 12 or equivalent examination with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects.
Number of Attempts: Candidates can appear for JEE Main in three consecutive years from the year of passing their Class 12 examination.